Latest news with #DubaiEsports&GamesFestival
Trade Arabia
27-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Trade Arabia
Dubai Esports & Games Festival kicks off
The Dubai Esports & Games Festival (DEF) 2025, organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), has opened with a citywide celebration of fun, creativity, and pop culture like no other. There's something in store for everyone, with exciting new features, free-to-play experiences, mega prizes worth over AED500,000, and all-round unmissable activities for all ages, interests, and abilities. Friends, families, and fans are guaranteed truly unforgettable experiences throughout the 17 action-packed days of the festival till May 11. Everyone has the chance to take part, play, and win - especially during DEF's eagerly awaited flagship event, GameExpo, that will once again take over Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from May 9 to 11, this year in Zabeel Halls 2 and 3. Tickets are on sale for the weekend-long event, which returns bigger, bolder, and more immersive than ever before. Friends and families will be able to discover an exciting line-up of non-stop gaming, fresh new activations, next-level entertainment, immersive activities, and exciting prizes spread across eight interactive zones - with every experience completely free to play. Adding to the excitement, epic influencer showdowns will take centre stage as part of Play Beyond on May 10 and 11, featuring the region's top gaming influencers and esports pros like Abo Flah. The final day of GameExpo on May 11 will set the stage for the thrilling Dubai Cosplay Championship, with registration open until May 7 for cosplayers of all levels and abilities to showcase their creativity for a chance to win prizes worth up to AED30,000 - judged by top cosplayers from the region. -
Zawya
26-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Zawya
Dubai Esports & Games Festival 2025 kicks off today
RELATED TOPICS LEISURE RELATED COMPANIES Rove Hotels Microsoft Tiktok Virgin Radio Asi Red Bull Unreal Engine Dubai, United Arab Emirates: The wait is over! Dubai Esports & Games Festival (DEF) 2025, organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), officially kicks off today 25 April and runs until 11 May with a citywide celebration of fun, creativity, and pop culture like no other. There's something in store for everyone, with exciting new features, free-to-play experiences, mega prizes worth over AED 500,000, and all-round unmissable activities for all ages, interests, and abilities. Friends, families, and fans are guaranteed truly unforgettable experiences throughout the 17 action-packed days of the festival. Everyone has the chance to take part, play, and win - especially during DEF's eagerly awaited flagship event, GameExpo, that will once again take over Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from 9 to 11 May, this year in Zabeel Halls 2 and 3. Tickets are on sale for the weekend-long event, which returns bigger, bolder, and more immersive than ever before. Friends and families will be able to discover an exciting line-up of non-stop gaming, fresh new activations, next-level entertainment, immersive activities, and exciting prizes spread across eight interactive zones - with every experience completely free to play. Adding to the excitement, epic influencer showdowns will take centre stage as part of Play Beyond on 10 and 11 May, featuring the region's top gaming influencers and esports pros like Abo Flah. The final day of GameExpo on 11 May will set the stage for the thrilling Dubai Cosplay Championship, with registration open until 7 May for cosplayers of all levels and abilities to showcase their creativity for a chance to win prizes worth up to AED 30,000 - judged by top cosplayers from the region. Here are the top highlights to look out for this week: DEF Educational Engagement Programme Date: Until 8 May Location: Citywide and online About: The DEF Educational Engagement Programme has been inspiring the next generation of young gamers for years - and this year, it's back, bigger and fresher than ever. Packed with brand-new experiences, the citywide programme gives school students and educators a unique chance to dive into the dynamic world of esports and gaming, and compete for incredible prizes worth an astounding AED 50,000 across tournaments and challenges. On 8 May, students also have the chance to visit DEF's flagship GameExpo event on a school trip, offering them an immersive experience in the world of gaming innovation. Alongside all the action on the day, students and educators can take part in expert-led presentations and exclusive interactive workshops delivered by senior educators from Microsoft and Unreal Engine, designed to offer valuable insights into game design, AI integration and Teacher takeaways. Power Up Parade Week Date: 28 April to 2 May Location: Citywide About: As part of the DEF Educational Engagement Programme, the Power Up Parade Week invites students, teachers, and parents to dress up as their favourite gaming characters. Schools can showcase creativity and win amazing prizes by posting the best costumes on social media and tagging @DubaiFestivals with the hashtag #DEFPowerUp to enter the official contest. Game Changers Date: Deadline to submit - 30 April Location: Online and at GameExpo, Dubai World Trade Centre Zabeel Halls 2 and 3 About: Adding to the excitement of the DEF Educational Engagement Programme, the Game Changers initiative invites student teams to dream big and develop bold ideas that harness the power of gaming to reshape education, ignite innovation, or drive social good. Individuals or teams are invited to submit proposals exploring how gaming can inspire innovation, support education, or drive social impact. Submissions can include ideas for new game concepts, gaming in education or tackling real-world issues through gaming. The top five submissions, selected by industry judges, will be invited to present live at DEF's GameExpo on 8 May. Finalists receive prizes from sponsors and be recognised as DEF's most forward-thinking young talents. ENBD Fortnite Quest Date: Until 8 May Location: Online and at GameExpo, Dubai World Trade Centre Zabeel Halls 2 and 3 About: A recurring highlight of the DEF Educational Engagement Programme, the ENBD Fortnite Quest has returned bigger than ever this year, continuing its mission to find and crown the best Fortnite player in the UAE. This nationwide esports competition provides an opportunity for students to showcase their skills in a high-energy, high-stakes environment. School and online qualifiers are currently ongoing until 26 April, culminating in a live final on 8 May at DEF's GameExpo on 8 May. For an added level of excitement, this year's finals will feature a custom Dubai-themed Fortnite map, allowing players to compete in a uniquely immersive gaming environment for a chance to take home winning trophies and prizes worth AED 20,000. GameOn with HP Gaming Garage Date: Until 8 May Location: Online and at GameExpo, Dubai World Trade Centre Zabeel Halls 2 and 3 About: Adding even more depth to DEF Educational Engagement Programme is GameOn with HP Gaming Garage, an online hackathon that runs until 8 May. Students aged 13 years or older have the chance to work in teams of 2–3 to create Dubai-inspired game prototypes. Participants receive guidance during and after the hackathon, ensuring their concepts become polished prototypes ready for gaming platforms. Finalists have the opportunity to present their prototypes live at GameExpo on 8 May. JPEX Entertainment Exhibition Date: 25 to 27 April Location: Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), Expo City Dubai, Hall South 2A About: Calling all anime lovers, manga fans, cosplay enthusiasts and culture buffs. JPEX Entertainment Exhibition is landing at the Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai from 25 to 27 April. It's the ultimate celebration of Japanese culture, creativity, and pop fandom, proudly showcasing the world of anime, live performances, creative workshops, and more. From traditional heritage to cutting-edge entertainment, JPEX will see vibrant stories come alive. Yalla Ludo Challenge Date: 29 April to 6 May Location: Online About: DEF's exclusive Yalla Ludo Challenge brings casual and competitive gamers together in a mobile-first competition, for the chance to earn exclusive in-game rewards, collectibles, and top-tier bragging rights by climbing the leaderboard. Running across the UAE, this event delivers bite-sized thrills and in-game glory as part of DEF 2025's diverse online tournaments. Rove Hotels Exclusive Offer Date: Until 12 May Location: Rove Downtown, Rove Trade Centre, Rove City Walk, and Rove Dubai Marina About: Attendees of GameExpo, GameExpo Summit, and Gaming Matters can enjoy an exclusive 25 per cent discount on stays at Rove Downtown, Rove Trade Centre, Rove City Walk, and Rove Dubai Marina. Perfect for those looking to stay close to the action or out-of-town visitors, the offer is valid for bookings made before 8 May for stays between 20 April and 12 May. The discount can be redeemed by entering the code Esports when booking through the Rove Hotels website. With a power-packed line-up of one-of-a-kind citywide events, there is something for everyone to explore, experience, and enjoy throughout DEF 2025. The festival brings together the best of entertainment and innovation in a dynamic, welcoming atmosphere for all ages and interests, offering a true celebration of community, creativity, and play. Dubai Esports and Games Festival (DEF) 2025 is supported by Strategic Partners which include: Amazon, du, Dubai Police, Dubai Sports Council, Emirates NBD, Red Bull, Rove, Roxy Cinemas, talabat, and Virgin Radio. For more information and to register for ticket updates on Dubai Esports and Games Festival 2025, please visit the DEF 2025 website and follow @DubaiFestivals on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn. About Dubai Esports and Games Festival Organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), Dubai Esports and Games Festival (DEF 2025) takes place from 25 April to 11 May. Launched in 2022, the annual festival returns to the Dubai World Trade Centre once again this year. The festival aims to set and influence trends across both the global and regional gaming industry, and bolster Dubai's position as a global hub for esports and interactive tech-driven entertainment, and as a global city at the forefront of innovation. DEF 2025 features a combination of events including a lively GameExpo, esports tournaments, and influencer challenges, alongside GameExpo Summit, a thought-provoking and business stimulating conference and B2B networking event that connects companies from around the world. About Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), an agency of Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), is responsible for developing Dubai's retail and festival sectors and supporting the positioning of Dubai as a world-class tourism destination with year-round family entertainment, shopping and events. For further information, please contact: Dubai Economy and Tourism mediarelations@
Khaleej Times
25-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Dh500,000 in prizes: Dubai's biggest gaming celebration to begin May 9
Dubai Esports & Games Festival (DEF) 2025 kicks off on Friday, unleashing 17 days of action-packed fun, creativity, and pop culture across the city. Organised by the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), the festival promises prizes worth over Dh500,000, alongside free-to-play gaming experiences, influencer showdowns, and interactive activities for fans of all ages. Running until May 11, DEF 2025 transforms Dubai into a gaming and entertainment playground, with a special focus on GameExpo, the event taking over Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from May 9 to 11. Set in Zabeel Halls 2 and 3, the weekend-long expo will feature eight interactive zones, thrilling tournaments, and influencer battles, including top regional names like Abo Flah. Cosplayers will take center stage on the final day for the Dubai Cosplay Championship, with prizes worth up to Dh30,000. Educational initiatives The excitement extends beyond DWTC, with citywide and online events aimed at students, educators, and families. The DEF Educational Engagement Programme runs until May 8, offering school visits, game design workshops, and competitions with prizes worth Dh50,000. Some key features are: Power Up Parade Week (April 28 to May 2): Schools compete in costume contests by dressing up as gaming characters for a chance to win by tagging @DubaiFestivals and using #DEFPowerUp. Game changers: Students can submit ideas that use gaming for social good or educational innovation by April 30, with finalists presenting at GameExpo. ENBD Fortnite quest: Ongoing until May 8, the contest features a custom Dubai-themed map, culminating in a live final at GameExpo with Dh20,000 in prizes. GameOn with HP gaming garage: A hackathon running until May 8, where teens create Dubai-inspired game prototypes, mentored by industry professionals. Online challenges Fans of Japanese culture can head to the JPEX Entertainment Exhibition from April 25 to 27 at Expo City Dubai, featuring anime, cosplay, live performances, and creative workshops. Casual gamers can join the Yalla Ludo Challenge from April 29 to May 6, battling it out online for exclusive in-game rewards and leaderboard glory. Travel and stay perks Visitors can enjoy a 25 per cent discount on stays at participating Rove Hotels until May 12. The offer is valid for bookings made before May 8 using the code Esports. With a power-packed lineup of one-of-a-kind citywide events, there is something for everyone to explore, experience, and enjoy throughout DEF 2025. The festival brings together the best of entertainment and innovation in a dynamic, welcoming atmosphere for all ages and interests, offering a true celebration of community, creativity, and play.
FACT
25-02-2025
- Entertainment
- FACT
The fourth edition of the Dubai Esports and Games Festival is on the way
Gamers, get ready to power up because the Dubai Esports & Games Festival (DEF) is back for its fourth edition. Promising to be bigger and bolder than ever, this edition will take place from 25 April to 11 May, transforming Dubai into the ultimate gaming paradise. At the heart of the Dubai Esports and Games Festival lies the GameExpo, set to take place at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) Zabeel Halls 2 from 9 to 11 May. This year, GameExpo promises an expanded lineup of world exclusives, gaming tournaments, and immersive experiences that will leave you breathless. Dive into the Gaming District to discover the latest releases, explore the Future Zone for a glimpse into tomorrow's tech-infused gaming world, or take a trip down memory lane in the Retro Zone. And check out The Narrows for a bustling shopping alley filled with talented artists showcasing their craft. The GameExpo 2025 will also include activities such as cosplay, esports tournaments, coding workshops, and Minecraft education challenges, guaranteeing an immersive and engaging experience for all visitors. Don't miss the GameExpo Summit on 7 and 8 May, where you can power up your knowledge, connect with industry experts, and discover the latest trends shaping the future of gaming and esports. With talks, panels, networking opportunities, and more, it's the place to be for anyone serious about the business of gaming. If you're looking to bond with the family over some friendly gaming battles, head over to the new Family Zone, where gamers of all ages can come together for a bit of wholesome competition. And for all tech enthusiasts, Electric Avenue is your one-stop shop for the latest and greatest gaming gear from specialised electronic retailers. At the Play Beyond, top regional and global stars will go head-to-head in the ultimate gaming showdown. With exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities and thrilling esports competitions, Play Beyond is where the magic will unfold. Students will have the chance to supercharge their digital skills through competitions like the Microsoft MakeCode Competition and the Minecraft Education Challenge, as well as gain insider insights into the gaming industry through Industry Expert Talks held in schools and universities. See you there, gamers! GO: Visit for more information.
